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housing assistance in virginia

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Virginia

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Virginia

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through Virginia Rent Relief Program and local Community Action Agencies
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are currently closed in most areas
  • USDA rural home loans offer 5.00% interest rates with no down payment for eligible rural areas
  • LIHEAP utility assistance provides $198-$703 for heating and up to $700 for cooling costs
  • Income limits vary by area – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
  • Virginia has source of income discrimination – landlords can refuse Section 8 vouchers legally

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance, or contact your local Community Action Agency.

Can’t pay rent right now? Apply through the Virginia Rent Relief Program – still operating for COVID-related hardships.

Need utility help today? Call 2-1-1 for crisis utility assistance or contact Dollar Energy Fund at (866) 762-2348.

In danger? Virginia Family Violence & Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 838-8238 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Virginia Rent Relief Program (RRP)

Virginia’s Rent Relief Program continues to provide emergency rental assistance for households affected by COVID-19. Virginia has been exemplary in its rapid disbursement of rent relief funds, leading most states with a 62% disbursement rate and serving over 70,900 unique low-income households.

What it covers:

  • Up to 15 months of rent arrears (back rent)
  • Up to 3 months of future rent payments
  • Late fees and court costs
  • Utility payments and arrears
  • Internet service for remote work/school

Income requirements: Households earning up to 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) are eligible, with priority given to those at 50% AMI or below and those unemployed for 90+ days.

How to apply: Apply online through Gov2Go portal or by phone at (833) 727-2227.

Processing time: Applications typically processed within 3-6 weeks, but funding availability varies by region.

Reality check: While Virginia has performed well compared to other states, funding is limited and prioritizes households most affected by COVID-19. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately.

Community Action Agencies Crisis Assistance

Virginia has multiple Community Action Agencies serving all regions. These agencies provide emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support.

Example services:

  • Crisis intervention for utility shut-offs
  • Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency)
  • Security deposit assistance
  • Emergency food and transportation assistance

Contact: Call 2-1-1 or visit Virginia Department of Social Services to find your local agency.

Virginia Homeless Solutions Program (VHSP)

The Virginia Homeless Solutions Program supports the development of localized emergency crisis response systems with housing-focused, coordinated community-based activities.

Services include:

  • Emergency shelter placement
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Homelessness prevention
  • Case management and support services

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. Virginia Housing partners with local housing agencies across the Commonwealth to administer the HCV Program, where participants typically pay 30% of their income toward rent with the voucher covering the remainder.

Income Eligibility (2025)

HUD sets income limits based on Median Family Income estimates and Fair Market Rent areas. You may qualify if your household does not exceed the very low-income limit (50% of Area Median Income).

Metro Area 1 Person 2 People 3 People 4 People
Virginia Beach-Norfolk $31,850 $36,400 $40,950 $45,450
Richmond $33,500 $38,250 $43,050 $47,800
Washington-Arlington $59,850 $68,400 $76,950 $85,450
Statewide Non-Metro $26,750 $30,550 $34,400 $38,200

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Priority groups:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

  1. Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  2. Apply online when waiting list opens (check waiting list status)
  3. Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  5. Wait for voucher availability (waiting lists currently closed in most areas)
  6. Attend voucher briefing when called
  7. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days

Reality check: Most Virginia housing authorities have closed waiting lists due to high demand. Virginia does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. Check current waiting list status before applying.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Fair Market Rents reflect the average cost of affordable housing in metropolitan areas and are used to determine maximum rents for Section 8.

Metro Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Virginia Beach-Norfolk $975 $1,235 $1,565 $1,895
Richmond $860 $1,075 $1,395 $1,695
Washington-Arlington $1,710 $2,050 $2,565 $3,010
Statewide Average $750 $950 $1,250 $1,550

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Contact your Local Public Housing Authority in Virginia to inquire about public housing programs.

Benefits:

  • Rent typically 30% of adjusted income
  • Some properties include utilities
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Access to supportive services

Challenges:

  • Limited locations and unit types
  • Long waiting lists
  • Less neighborhood choice than vouchers

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The Section 502 Direct Loan Program assists low- and very-low-income applicants obtain decent, safe housing in eligible rural areas by providing payment assistance to increase repayment ability.

Current rates (effective July 1, 2025): 5.00% fixed interest rate for low-income and very-low-income applicants, potentially reduced to as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy.

Loan terms: Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants)

Payment assistance: Temporary subsidy based on adjusted family income to reduce monthly payments

No down payment required for most applicants

Eligibility requirements:

  • Adjusted income at or below the applicable low-income limit for the area
  • Unable to obtain conventional financing on reasonable terms
  • Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Demonstrate willingness and ability to repay debt

How to apply: Contact your regional USDA Rural Development office. Processing varies by funding availability and application completeness.

Virginia USDA Offices:

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

This program provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes or grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards.

Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years Grants: Up to $10,000 lifetime limit (must be 62+ years old) Combined assistance: Up to $50,000 total assistance or $55,000 in presidentially declared disaster areas

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Virginia’s LIHEAP program helps eligible low-income Virginia households meet the costs of home heating during winter and cooling during summer.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Virginia LIHEAP provides heating assistance from $198 minimum to $703 maximum, cooling assistance from $50 minimum to $700 maximum, and winter crisis assistance up to $4,200 maximum.

Benefit Type Minimum Amount Maximum Amount Season
Heating $198 $703 October 8 – November 8
Cooling $50 $700 June 15 – August 15
Winter Crisis N/A $4,200 November 1 – March 17
Weatherization Varies Varies Year-round

Source: Virginia LIHEAP Clearinghouse

Income eligibility: Gross monthly income may not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level

Application process: Apply through your local Community Action Agency during designated periods. Applications processed first-come, first-served.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills or disconnect notices
  • Proof of income for all household members 18+

Virginia Utility Company Assistance Programs

Virginia utilities offer additional assistance programs funded by customer and company donations:

Dominion Energy EnergyShare

EnergyShare is a heating and cooling assistance program supported by donations from utility stockholders, employees, customers, businesses, churches, and civic groups. Call 2-1-1 for referral to local EnergyShare agency or (866) 366-4357.

Columbia Gas Heatshare

Funded by customer and company contributions and administered by the Salvation Army, Heatshare helps households with energy bills. Call (800) 537-7431.

Appalachian Power Neighbor-to-Neighbor

Eligibility is determined and funds distributed by the Dollar Energy Fund. Call (800) 956-4237.

Homeownership Programs

Virginia Housing First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Virginia Housing makes affordable housing possible through specialty programs, financing options, tools and resources to help families.

Programs available:

  • Down Payment Assistance: Up to $15,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance
  • Below-market interest rates for qualified buyers
  • Mortgage Credit Certificates providing annual tax credits

Contact: Virginia Housing at (877) 843-2123

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down payment and accept lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Benefits:

  • Down payment as low as 3.5%
  • Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
  • Seller can pay closing costs
  • Assumable loans

VA Loans (for Veterans)

Veterans and eligible spouses can access VA loans with:

  • No down payment required
  • No private mortgage insurance
  • Competitive interest rates
  • No prepayment penalties

USDA Guaranteed Rural Loans

USDA Guaranteed Rural Loans provide 100% financing with no down payment for eligible rural areas.

Benefits:

  • No down payment required
  • 36% lower monthly mortgage insurance than comparable FHA loans
  • Credit scores as low as 580 may be acceptable
  • Maximum income limits are 115% of area median income

Property eligibility: Must be in USDA-eligible rural area (typically areas with population under 20,000)

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Samaritan House (Northern Virginia)

Samaritan House provides comprehensive housing options including 13 emergency shelters and permanent housing through rapid rehousing approach.

Services include:

  • Immediate and secure refuge at emergency shelters at undisclosed locations for protection of survivors
  • Housing NOW program that assists participants to secure permanent housing as quickly as possible
  • Housing location services
  • Case management and support services

Contact: Samaritan House

Domestic Violence Housing

Virginia Family Violence & Sexual Assault Hotline

24/7 Hotline: (800) 838-8238

Virginia Injury and Violence Prevention and the National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 provide support for persons experiencing violence.

Safe housing options for survivors include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and support services

EmpowerNet (Central Virginia)

EmpowerNet is one of Virginia’s largest regional networks of domestic and sexual violence providers working together to provide comprehensive services.

24-hour helpline: (804) 612-6126

James House (Central Virginia)

James House is an accredited nonprofit helping people affected by sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking. All services are trauma-informed, cost-free, confidential, and available in both English and Spanish.

24-hour crisis line: (804) 458-2840

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Virginia has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the following resources provide affirming support:

State resources:

  • Equality Virginia: Advocacy and resource referrals
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources
  • National Center for Lesbian Rights: Legal advocacy and resources

Native American Housing Resources

Virginia has eight state-recognized tribes, and Native American families may access:

Federal programs:

  • HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide
  • Native American Housing Assistance: Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs at (800) 955-2232

State-recognized tribes in Virginia:

  • Chickahominy, Eastern Chickahominy, Mattaponi, Monacan, Nansemond, Nottoway, Pamunkey, Rappahannock

Contact: Virginia Council on Indians at (804) 225-2084 for tribal-specific resources

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

  • USDA Rural Development programs providing direct loans and guaranteed loans for rural homeownership
  • Community Action Agencies provide outreach services in rural areas
  • Mobile service delivery in some counties
  • Telehealth and virtual support services

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
  • Rural Transit programs in some areas

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs:

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender

Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups
  • Virginia Fatherhood Initiative: Support for fathers in Virginia

Resources by Region

Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William)

Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA)

  • Housing Choice Voucher Program (waiting list currently closed)
  • Public housing
  • Homeownership programs
  • Address: 3700 Pender Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Phone: (703) 246-5000

Northern Virginia Family Service

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Utility assistance
  • Case management
  • Phone: (571) 748-2500

Central Virginia (Richmond Metro)

Richmond Redevelopment & Housing Authority (RRHA)

  • Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing (RRHA is the largest housing authority in Virginia)
  • Address: 901 Chamberlayne Parkway, Richmond, VA 23220
  • Phone: (804) 780-4200

Central Virginia Community Action (CVA)

  • LIHEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Weatherization programs
  • Phone: (804) 649-2284

Hampton Roads (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News)

Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation

  • Provides secure, affordable rental housing for low-income persons and other disadvantaged groups with lower rental rates
  • Phone: (757) 385-2471

Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Phone: (757) 623-1111

Southwest Virginia (Roanoke, Bristol, Blacksburg)

Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority

  • Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Phone: (540) 983-9210

People Incorporated of Virginia

  • Transitional housing
  • Emergency assistance
  • Phone: (276) 623-9000

Shenandoah Valley (Harrisonburg, Winchester, Staunton)

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

  • Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Phone: (540) 434-7386

Community Action Agencies:

  • Blue Ridge Community Action: (540) 943-6782
  • Lord Fairfax Community Action: (540) 635-7208

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Virginia?

Most Virginia housing authorities have closed their waiting lists due to high demand. When open, waiting times vary dramatically by location:

  • Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Arlington): 3-5 years
  • Richmond area: 2-4 years
  • Virginia Beach/Norfolk: 2-3 years
  • Rural areas: 1-2 years

The FCRHA will provide notice on their website and through media outlets when waiting lists reopen. Check waiting list status regularly.

Can landlords refuse my Section 8 voucher in Virginia?

Yes. Virginia does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, many do accept them. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords or use HUD’s housing search tools.

What if I make too much money for Section 8 but still can’t afford rent?

If you exceed Section 8 income limits but still struggle with housing costs, consider:

  • Virginia Housing programs for moderate-income families
  • USDA rural loans (income limits up to 115% AMI in eligible areas)
  • FHA loans with 3.5% down payment
  • Local housing trust funds and down payment assistance
  • Shared housing or room rental to reduce costs

Can I get help if I’m working full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than work requirements. HUD income limits are typically 50% of Area Median Income for very low-income programs and 80% AMI for low-income programs. A single mother with two children in Richmond can earn up to about $43,050 annually and still qualify for very low-income housing programs.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction history?

Many assistance programs don’t have strict credit requirements, especially emergency programs. For long-term housing:

  • Public housing may be more flexible than private landlords
  • USDA direct loans consider whole financial picture
  • Housing counseling can help improve credit and address past issues
  • Some landlords will work with voucher holders who have explanation letters

How do I prove my income if I work multiple part-time jobs or get paid in cash?

Keep detailed records of all work and income:

  • Get written statements from employers
  • Keep pay stubs, even from cash jobs
  • Bank deposit records
  • Self-employment records and receipts
  • Your local housing counselor can help document irregular income properly

What if I’m undocumented?

Most federal housing programs require legal immigration status, but:

  • Emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available regardless of status
  • Some local programs provide help
  • Mixed-status families (some members documented, some not) may qualify for prorated assistance
  • Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on available resources

Can I move to Virginia from another state with my Section 8 voucher?

Section 8 vouchers are portable – you can transfer them between states through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority before moving to begin the transfer process. Note that Virginia’s high housing costs and limited voucher acceptance may make finding housing challenging.

What happens if my income goes up after getting assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income increases:

  • Section 8: Your rent portion increases, but you keep the voucher
  • Public housing: Rent increases to 30% of new income
  • USDA direct loans: Payment assistance may decrease gradually
  • Emergency programs: Typically one-time assistance regardless

This is actually a positive step toward self-sufficiency.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process:

  • You’ll receive written notice of denial with appeal instructions
  • Usually have 10-14 days to request a hearing
  • For RRHA, if you wish to dispute accuracy of denial decision, you must submit written request for informal review no later than 15 days from decision date
  • Don’t miss the deadline – contact a legal aid organization if needed

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common in Virginia: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be especially wary in expensive areas like Northern Virginia. Never send money before viewing the property or verifying ownership.

“Guaranteed” housing assistance: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or skip waiting lists.

Source of income discrimination: While illegal in some states, Virginia landlords can refuse Section 8 vouchers. This makes housing searches more challenging.

Common Challenges in Virginia

High housing costs: Virginia’s housing costs are above national average, especially in Northern Virginia and Richmond areas.

Limited public transportation: Many areas lack adequate public transit, making location choice critical for employment access.

Competitive rental market: Even with assistance, finding landlords who accept vouchers in good neighborhoods can be difficult.

Long waiting lists: Most assistance programs have multi-year waiting lists.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one before applying to others.

Consider rural areas: USDA programs offer better opportunities in rural Virginia, and housing costs are generally lower.

Build relationships with landlords: Some landlords who don’t typically accept vouchers may work with responsible tenants.

Get housing counseling: HUD-approved housing counselors provide free assistance with applications and housing searches.

Keep detailed records: Maintain organized files of all applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check application status and provide additional information needed.

Additional Resources

Virginia State Agencies

Virginia Department of Social Services

  • TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications
  • Phone: (804) 726-7000
  • Online: dss.virginia.gov

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)

  • State housing programs and resources
  • Phone: (804) 371-7000
  • Website: dhcd.virginia.gov

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

  • General housing information
  • Phone: (800) 569-4287
  • Website: hud.gov

USDA Rural Development

  • Rural housing and home repair programs
  • Phone: (800) 670-6553
  • Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Legal Aid Justice Center

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense
  • Phone: (804) 643-1086
  • Website: justice4all.org

Virginia Legal Aid Society

  • Housing law assistance
  • Tenant rights information
  • Phone: (804) 649-8794
  • Website: vlas.org

Financial Counseling

HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies Find a certified housing counselor to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education at HUD Find a Counselor or call (800) 569-4287.

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Virginia guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia Housing, USDA, and HHS to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, Virginia Housing, USDA, and HHS sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

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